November 27, 2009 17:57 PM

Tabung Haji To Absorb Expenses For Longer Stay Of Hajj Pilgrims Due To Delay In Flights

Ahmad Kamil Tahir

MECCA, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- Tabung Haji will absorb the extra cost incurred for the longer stay of Hajj pilgrims due to a delay in their return flight home after a reschedule in flight services by the Saudi authorities.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Jamil Khir Baharom said the delay was due to a directive by the Saudi Arabian government to allow only four Hajj return flights a day, comprising two from Malaysia and two from Saudi Airlines, to avoid congestion in their airport.

"Following the directive, some pilgrims who were scheduled to return on certain dates, had to remain in Saudi Arabia longer," he told Tabung Haji media personnel here on Friday.

He added that the reschedule of flights was accepted by the pilgrims and that Tabung Haji would absorb expenses incurred during their stay, especially food and accommodation.

"Initially they were concerned of the expenses incurred for their longer stay as they had only paid for a period of 40 days but I have assured them that Tabung Haji will absorb the extra cost," he said.

According to the schedule released, the first flight out will be on Dec 3 and the last flight leaves Saudi Arabia on Jan 2.

-- BERNAMA

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